Checking a C02 Build, looking for input

Show us your pneumatic spud gun! Discuss pneumatic (compressed gas) powered potato guns and related accessories. Valve types, actuation, pipe, materials, fittings, compressors, safety, gas choices, and more.
gungecko
Recruit
Recruit
United States of America
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Feb 29, 2024 1:18 am

Sat Mar 02, 2024 10:46 am

Looking to start designing a first Co2 sourced cannon.

attached is a drawing(poorly) roughly of what I am thinking of doing.

Right now I expect to utilize a 3 way valve to facilitate the Primer section of the QEV which will fill to a reservoir under the Atmosphere from a larger (10lb) regulated co2 tank at 200-300psi. prior to making this jump I referenced the awesome chart on the 12g co2 guide to build a ball valve prototype but I understand that is currently filling a 2Ci expansion chamber at closer to 800psi. this has helped me be a little more familiar with the properties of Co2. while the 12g carts are great and easy to work with they produce a lot of waste for the amount of use I would like to put this through, not to mention expensive since I plan to put 50+ shots through it in a weekend. yes this is for paintball and similar applications.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My concerns are the following, and here is where my inexperience in more complicated builds comes in :

1. Are there going to be issues using a electric 3 way valve or QEV with a C02 source. this will be triggered using a reed switch so it is a 12V Dc switch.

2. is my reservoir too small at the 10Ci to launch tennis ball sized/mass objects, I am thinking of utilizing a 24" barrel.

3. I would really like it if the reservoir would stop filling when the pressure is equal between the fill line and itself. what do i need to incorporate to fulfill that condition?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Previously I have done a few LPA builds with modified sprinkler and electric solenoid 2 way valves. but 3 way feels like a good jump up to allow me to fill from the 3 way and also trigger the primer. in my research I probably need to incorporate a check valve on the fill line.

As always Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance

What am I missing or overlooking?

Thanks,
Attachments
cannon psi.PNG
quinn whitsitt
Specialist 2
Specialist 2
United States of America
Posts: 234
Joined: Fri Feb 09, 2024 1:58 pm
Location: central city arkansas
Has thanked: 55 times
Been thanked: 7 times
Contact:

Wed Mar 06, 2024 11:51 am

that is great quick question does it work with air too
Post Reply